Minor Problem vs. a True Emergency

Reminder

If you are ever unsure about whether your child's injury needs emergency care, treat it as an emergency. Call 911 or your local emergency medical services right away for any serious injury.

Many minor injuries can be handled at home. However, there are times when a trip to the hospital emergency department is needed. In general, take your child to an emergency room after an injury anytime you think the problem may need urgent attention, including if your child has:

Trouble breathing, shortness of breath, or bloody sputum

Blue or purple color to lips, skin, or nail beds

Chest or stomach pain or pressure

Sudden dizziness, weakness, or change in vision

Change in mental status (such as loss of consciousness, confusion, or trouble waking)

Seizures

Animal, snake, or human bites

Severe pain or loss of motion or sensation anywhere in the body

Severe bleeding or bleeding that does not stop with direct pressure

Severe burns or burns of the face

Broken bones

Puncture wounds

Head, spinal cord, or eye injuries

Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, eyes, or tongue, fainting, or with trouble breathing, swallowing, or wheezing

This is a partial list. There are other problems that may require emergency care. Contact your child's physician for more information.